Trainspotters who visit Reading West station could hold the key to unlocking an assault which might have left a fellow engine enthusiast blind.

British Transport Police are appealing for trainspotters in the Reading area – or people who visit the town’s stations – to come forward following the gang attack on a 61-year-old man who was taking pictures of the trains.

The victim, from Marlow in Buckinghamshire, suffered severe injuries to his left eye during the attack and robbery by thugs at the station at 1.30pm on Saturday, February 16.

They robbed him of his camera before beating him.

Steve Wrelton, a British Transport Police spokesman, said: “The man, a rail enthusiast, was approached by a group of six men on the station’s footbridge.

“He was then assaulted and robbed of his camera by two of the men who are described as being around 40 years old and of Eastern European appearance.

“Police wish to speak to another rail enthusiast, who may have seen the group of men before the attack took place. The man is thought to be in his late 60s or early 70s with white hair.”

Detective Constable Chris Church, of British Transport Police, added: “This was a nasty and unprovoked attack which caused serious injury to the victim concerned.

“I would very much like to speak to anyone who many have any information about what happened, particularly any railway enthusiasts in the local area who frequent Reading West or nearby stations.”

If you have any information about this incident please contact British Transport Police on 0845 40 50 40.